We get into the most powerful smart in existence, the Brabus #5

Smart is no longer what you remember. It's no longer the majority of utility models that measured no more than 2.70 meters long. It's no longer the one you mostly see on the street. It's been three years since the German manufacturer began a new era, starting with the launch of the smart #1 in 2022, a model with SUV proportions that already measured more than 4 meters. The goal? To take a new direction to boost a constantly growing electric vehicle segment. This model was followed by the smart #3 last year, and just a month ago, its largest model to date, the #5, was launched and went on sale.

But this isn't just a simple #5; it's the top-of-the-range, high-performance version, called BRABUS. In fact, it's the most powerful model smart has ever produced. It's actually called the Brabus #5, and its design is truly striking, with a high front end, CyberSparksLED+ headlights with Adaptive High Beam Assist and matrix technology, 21-inch wheels, and red accents on the side skirts, mirrors, roof, and brake calipers. There's also a distinctive red stripe on the rear bumper.

The double-wishbone suspension on the front axle of the new midsize electric SUV, starting at €48,000 , ensures balanced handling and a high level of comfort, even with a sporty driving style or on uneven surfaces. The five off-road driving modes (Adaptive, Sand, Snow, Mud, and Rock), the high ground clearance of up to 197 mm with a wading depth of 500 mm, and a practical ramp angle enable safe driving off paved roads.

And it's supposed to be for the city because it's 100% electric, like any self-respecting Smart. We were able to get in and test its 646 hp and all-wheel drive. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds, with Launch Control, but, come on, it's a beast! And you have 540 km of range to unleash your "Sunday-like" mode, or hit the BRABUS button and even hear the (always artificial) engine roar.

Developed for all types of environments, the smart #5 sets new standards thanks to its efficient propulsion system and advanced 800-volt platform, demonstrating its ability to support rapid charging thanks to its high-voltage architecture and intelligent thermal management. All variants of the smart #5 Pro+, with the exception of the Pro (equipped with 76 kWh), are equipped with a 100 kWh battery, capable of delivering DC charging power of up to 400 kW, allowing charging from 10 to 80% in just 18 minutes.

Its interior is also truly striking. It's full of detail and color, featuring an advanced system featuring a 25.6-inch augmented reality head-up display, a 10.25-inch Full HD digital instrument panel, and two 13-inch OLED screens—one in the center and one for the passenger—ensuring a fluid and interactive user experience.

Enhanced voice control with integrated AI, along with a new avatar, Leo, as a personal assistant, allows hands-free control of numerous vehicle functions. In addition, the smart OS 2.0 operating system offers charging routes optimized for electric vehicles and a new video center, enabling in-vehicle video playback. Thanks to the 3D graphics engine by Unreal, the on-screen graphics are fluid and detailed, allowing easy operation of all interface functions.

But something unusual in the automotive market, and where this model excels, is its audio experience. The new smart #5 is equipped with Sennheiser's Signature Sound System, which features 20 high-fidelity speakers. Combined with the retractable dashboard speaker, synchronized with the ambient lighting, the audio system sets the mood for every journey. To ensure a personalized soundscape, users can customize the audio to their preferences with a wide variety of options, including sound effects, immersion level, bass level, and zoned audio outputs.

With a peak power of 1,190 watts and integrated speakers designed to align with multiple input formats, from stereo and surround to a full Dolby Atmos setup, the system delivers immersive ambient sound. It also adds greater depth and dimensionality, allowing specially mixed tracks to create a spacious and immersive soundstage that surrounds the listener from all directions, delivering an unprecedented listening experience.

Not to mention the cargo capacity. Five people can travel inside, with plenty of legroom and headroom, multiple well-organized and distributed compartments, and a double trunk. It offers 47 liters in the front, and 630 liters in the rear, which increases to 1530 liters if you fold down the seats. Is there anything that doesn't fit in the #5?